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We live in a world of power-hungry devices that require daily charging. But when we travel, keeping the multitude of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gear charged is difficult. When we run out of juice on the road, we turn to portable power banks to keep things charged.
Not all power banks are the same. Like buying AA batteries for a remote, you need a good quality battery to give you a long-lasting charge. But how can you spot a good power bank on Amazon when the site is flooded with cheap knockoffs?
I’ll list the key factors to consider when buying a power bank, explain the FAA regulations about flying with them, and review the best power banks for travel.
Quickly find the top products and jump to its review. Reviews include detailed specs, personal opinions, and a list of pros and cons.
Do you like numbers? Because many numbers are involved when buying a power bank – capacity and max output being the top two. But what do all these numbers mean? And what else should you consider?
Here’s a complete breakdown of everything to consider when buying a power bank.
The capacity of a power bank is measured in milliamp hours, expressed as mAh. Without getting technical, it’s the measurement of power the battery can hold.
To put this into perspective, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 4,441 mAh battery, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 3,900 mAh battery, and the iPad Pro 12.9” has a 10,758 mAh battery.
When choosing a power bank, consider how many charges you’ll get in your devices. A 20,000 mAh battery is a good standard.
The measurement of flowing power is measured in watts. A power bank’s max power output tremendously impacts how it is used.
The maximum output of a power bank is the amount of power output by all USB ports combined. The maximum output of individual ports can vary depending on how many USB ports are used simultaneously. Better power banks have a greater power output when multiple ports are used.
The maximum output of any single USB port determines what can be charged. Most smartphones require at least 15W, and laptops require about 60W. Anything less is called a trickle charge – it takes significantly longer to charge, and you can’t use the device while charging.
The number of USB ports determines how many devices can be charged simultaneously. Three USB ports are a good standard – it allows you to charge two smartphones and another device simultaneously.
The type of USB port is only a minor issue. Now that Apple has ditched the Lightning port in favor of USB-C, keeping all your devices charged is easier than ever. The USB-C port is the most common on power banks, but having at least one USB-A is still necessary.
The size and weight of a power bank determines how easy it is to pack in your luggage and whether you can put it in your pocket.
Smaller power banks, wall chargers, and USB cables are easy to pack in tech bags. But larger power banks are difficult to pack inside tech bags, requiring them to be stuffed between packing cubes or inside a dedicated pocket in your luggage.
Weight is typically only a factor when you’re flying. FAA regulations require all lithium-ion batteries to be carried onto the plane. Heavier power banks mean you have less available weight for clothes and accessories.
The good news is that you can fly with most power banks. But before you head to the airport, check this list of FAA regulations and procedures:
So, what does all this mean?
100 Watt-Hours includes almost all portable power banks, so there is nothing to worry about there.
But the thing to watch out for is “battery terminals must be protected.” This means your power banks must be stored in pouches, dedicated pockets in tech bags, or specialized carry cases for the power bank. Many power banks have additional carry cases – I recommend you get them.
What’s the point of buying one of the best portable power banks if you can’t charge the power bank when the battery is drained? Wall chargers and power cables are some of the most difficult items to buy on websites like Amazon because of cheap alternatives. It’s far too easy for Amazon-only brands to buy cables in bulk and slap their brand on it.
Fortunately, this guide to chargers and cables will help you find trustworthy, high-quality products.
One of the most common mistakes people make with charging devices is using the incorrect wall charger. This is especially true with modern smartphones that no longer include a charger. It’s too easy to keep using the previous charger, even though it may not have enough power output to quickly charge the smartphone.
The same is true for charging power banks.
The minimum power output I recommend for charging power banks is 30W. But it’s not necessary to try charging power banks with anything greater than 60W because the power input does have limits. No need to use the 100W charger from your laptop.
Here are some wall chargers I recommend for keeping your new power bank charged while traveling.
Anker Nano Charger
I have about a dozen of these chargers packed in my travel gear. With a 30W output, it’s perfect for charging smartphones and power banks. The foldable plug and and tiny size makes it easy to pack.Buy at Anker or Amazon.
Anker Nano 3 Charger
Charge two devices simultaneously with a 27W and 20W USB-C port in the Anker Nano 3 Charger. The foldable plug and small size makes it easy to pack for travel. Buy at Anker or Amazon.
Anker Prime 6-in-1 Charging Station
The Anker Prime system changed everything about charging devices while traveling. The 6-in-1 Charging Station is a powerful and portable charger with 2 USB-C ports, 2 USB-A ports, and 2 AC outlets. Buy at Anker or Amazon.
It may seem that all charging cables are alike, but that’s not the case. The plug’s material, quality of the power lines, and durability of the coating can make or break a charging cable.
Interestingly, one of the few Amazon Basics products I continuously buy and travel with are their charging cables.
Here are a few charging cables that will work well with charging your new power bank and keeping your devices charged on the go.
Anker Prime USB-C Cable
The Anker Prime USB-Cable is a durable braided charging cable with a max 240W capability. The reinforced cable prevents damage from breaking over time. Available in 3-foot and 6-foot lengths. Buy at Anker or Amazon.
Baseus USB-C Cable
The Baseus USB-C Cable has a max 100W capacity, making it plenty enough for quickly charging power banks. The braided design makes it durable for travel. Buy at Baseus or Amazon.
Best Power Bank
With a 27,650mAh capacity and 250W max output, this is the smallest and most powerful power bank on the market, perfect for charging smartphones, tablets, and laptops on the go.
Anker Prime is a new ecosystem of portable chargers, power banks, and charging stations perfect for remote work and travel. The powerful devices work wonderfully individually but create an unparalleled charging experience when combined.
The Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank is their most powerful and an update to the original Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank. With a 27,650mAh capacity, the power bank can charge an iPhone 15 Pro Max four times, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra six times, an iPad Pro 12.9” twice, and a MacBook Pro slightly more than once.
The power bank has two USB-C ports and a single USB-A port. It features a powerful 250W maximum output when using all three charging ports simultaneously. But when using just the USB-C ports, the power bank has a max output of 240W.
The Anker Prime Power Bank has a tremendous capacity in a small package. The power bank is 6.37” tall, 1.96” wide, and 2.24” deep and weighs 1.5 pounds. It’s not a power bank you can stuff into your pocket, but it easily packs in a tech or laptop bag.
The integrated Smart Display is unique among power banks. The full-color digital display provides information about the remaining battery percentage, the time until the power bank is recharged, and the power output of all the ports.
When paired with the Anker Nano Charger, you can charge the Prime Power Bank in a few hours. You can charge three devices simultaneously with two USB-C ports and a single USB-A.
Specs
The Anker Prime Power Bank is a bulky, heavy power bank that can’t easily fit in my camera bag or day bag when I’m traveling. But that’s not where I use it. The hefty power bank goes in my computer bag along with my laptop, mouse, and writing essentials. I use it at coffee shops when I need to charge my laptop, iPad, and iPhone simultaneously.
Alternative Best Power Bank
The 24,000 mAh capacity and 140W max output charges smartphones, tablets, and laptops in a portable size that’s perfect for travel.
The Baseus 140W Power Bank packs an impressive 24,000 mAh capacity capable of charging an iPhone 15 Pro almost six times, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra five times, an iPad Pro 12.9” almost three times, and a MacBook Pro once.
The power bank has a 100-140W USB-C port, a 15-30W USB-C port, and a single 15-30W USB-A port. When charging one device at a time, the max output is 140W through a USB-C port capable of charging a MacBook Pro.
It’s a small unit for such a large capacity, measuring 5.4” long, 3.3” wide, and 1.2” thick and weighing just over a pound. It’s not small enough or light enough to carry in your pocket, but it’s certainly good enough for packing in luggage and gear bags.
A digital display shows the remaining battery percentage, charging voltage, and charging current for any connected devices. You can simultaneously charge the power bank and connected devices with pass-through charging.
Specs
The Baseus 140W Power Bank is a behemoth for charging multiple devices simultaneously with 2 USB-C and a USB-A charging port. However, this power bank is limited to 140W max power output. And that output drops to 100W when using more than one charging port at a time. It’s slimmer than the Anker Prime Power Bank, which gives it an edge.
Best Power Bank for Camping
The 25,600 mAh capacity is the largest approved by most airlines. The integrated Qi charger means few cables and the 100W USB-C port can charge laptops, but the 1.5-pound weight is a put-off for some.
Goal Zero’s first product was an innovative portable power station and solar panels for relief work in undeveloped countries. Since then, the company has broadened its lineup to include solar generators, home backup systems, and power banks.
The Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD is a powerful 25,600 mAh power bank. It can charge an iPhone 15 Pro almost six times, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra five times, an iPad Pro 12.9” almost three times, and a MacBook Pro once.
The power bank has an integrated 15W Qi charger, a single 100W USB-C port, and two USB-A ports.
The power bank is 10.5” long, 8” wide, 2” thick, and weighs 1.5 pounds. It’s the largest power bank approved by most airlines. With the additional protective case, you’ll be ready to charge your gear for days with this power bank.
The built-in full-color LCD display keeps you updated on the current stats like remaining capacity and charging status.
Ironically, you’ll need to buy the Anker 715 65W USB-C Charger to recharge the power bank with an outlet in about 2 hours. However, you could also get the Goal Zero Nomad 50 Solar Panel to recharge in about 4-8 hours.
Specs
Anker, Goal Zero, and Jackery make big portable power banks for camping that will keep a minifridge, electric griddle, and lights going for days. But if you’re looking for something easy to pack, lightweight, that can keep your smartphone and rechargable flashlight charged for a few days, then you’ll want the Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD. With an integrated Qi charger and three USB charging ports, it’ll keep your devices charged while requiring minimal space to pack.
Best Wireless Power Bank
This Qi-enabled 10,000 mAh wireless power bank works on all compatible phones and provides a quick charge without carrying extra cables.
The Anker PowerCore III Wireless Power Bank works with all Qi-enabled smartphones. The 10,000 mAh capacity can charge an iPhone 15 Pro Max twice, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra twice, and barely one charge for an iPad Pro 12.9”.
The slim power bank is 5.9” long, 2.7” wide, and 0.77” thick and weighs 8.5 ounces. It’s perfect for carrying in your pocket or stashing in a bag until needed.
The power bank features pass-through charging. Plug the power bank into a charger and charge the power bank and smartphone simultaneously.
Specs
I’ve kept the Anker PowerCore III Wireless Power Bank in my camera bag, laptop bag, and car for years. The slim design makes it easy to stuff into a pocket and at only 8.5 ounces it’s easy to carry all day. The integrated Qi charger makes it easy to charge my iPhone while sitting at a restaurant or coffee shop and the USB-C port allows me to charge my iPad.
Best Emergency Power Bank
This credit card-sized power bank has a 2,300 mAh capacity and interchangeable cable, perfect for an emergency to give smartphones about a 30% charge.
The AquaVault ChargeCard is a nifty power bank that fits in your wallet or purse. The 2,300 mAh capacity will only give smartphones a portion of a full charge, but it’s enough for emergency use. An interchangeable cable for Lightning or USB-C stores inside the power bank for easy access.
The tiny power bank is 3.3” long and 2.3” wide – about the size of a credit card. And at 0.18 inches thick, it’s about as thick as three credit cards. The stainless steel body gives it good durability.
Specs
The AquaVault ChargeCard is the perfect portable power bank. But, it comes with a few caveats. The tiny 2,300 mAh capacity is barely enough to charge a smartphone once and it has no other useful function. However, in the event of an emergency it will keep your smartphone going. And that could make all the difference.
With a transparent body revealing the inner workings, bold colors, and an impressive 25,600 mAh capacity, this power bank is a geeky style that will keep all your devices charged on the go.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Shargeek 100 Power Bank (formerly the Shargeek Storm 2 Power Bank) is the transparent body revealing the inner workings. It’s a uniquely geeky style for a power bank that includes functionality and design style with an impressive charging capability.
The power bank has a 25,600 mAh capacity capable of charging an iPhone 15 Pro almost six times, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra five times, an iPad Pro 12.9” almost three times, and a MacBook Pro once.
A 30W USB-C port, 75W USB-C port, and 18W USB-A port have a combined output of 100W.
The Storm 2 is a big power bank, but not bulky. It measures 5.94” long, 1.81” wide, and 2.32” tall. It weighs 1.25 pounds, slightly less than competitors with the same power capacity.
The multi-color IPS screen displays lots of information, like the number of connected devices, current capacity, and the temperature of the internal batteries, just for fun.
Charge the Shargeek 100 Power Bank in about two hours with the additional Shargeek 140W Wall Charger. Pass-through charging allows you to charge the power bank while charging connected devices simultaneously. Interestingly, the charger includes a UK, EU, and AU plug for use around the world.
It’s easy to pack and travel-friendly with the Shargeek Hard Travel Case to safely store the power bank, wall charger, and USB cables.
Specs
This versatile device is a wireless charger, power bank, and stand perfect for travel, although it’s mostly geared toward Apple users.
The Satechi Duo Stand and Power Bank has a 10,000 mAh battery capable of charging an iPhone 15 Pro Max twice, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra twice, and barely one charge for an iPad Pro 12.9”.
It’s a curious 3-in-1 device that is universally compatible with many rechargeable devices. First, the power bank features a single 18W USB-C port capable of charging any smartphone or other device.
Second, the top of the power bank tilts, creating a portable stand. A 10W Qi charger is integrated into the stand for charging any compatible smartphone. However, the stand is only strong enough to support a phone – touching the screen while in the stand pushes the stand flat against the power bank.
Finally, raising the power bank’s stand into place reveals a 5W Qi charge integrated into the base. This charger is perfect for Apple AirPods Pro 2 and trickle smartphone charging.
The 3-in-1 device’s small size is impressive considering the features. It measures 5.12” long, 2.83” wide, and 0.87” thick. Weighing just 10.2 ounces, it’s an ultraportable power bank that fits in your pocket.
With the additional Satechi USB-C Magnetic Charging Dock, you can add the ability to charge the Apple Watch. Simply plug the dock into the USB-C port to charge three devices simultaneously.
Specs
This power bank features an integrated Qi charger and dedicated wireless charging for the Apple Watch and AirPod Pro 2, making it an expensive favorite among Apple users.
Like most Apple products, the Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank is an elegant device with hidden features. It’s an excellent addition to your travel gear if you enjoy an expensive product to show off in the coffee shop.
The power bank has a 10,000 mAh capacity capable of charging an iPhone 15 Pro Max twice, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra twice, and barely one charge for an iPad Pro 12.9”.
The love/hate relationship with this power bank concerns the wireless charging. The dedicated Apple Watch and AirPods Pro 2 charger is great for charging that gear on the go. The integrated Qi charger is great for compatible phones that include more than just the iPhone, but it only includes iPhone 11 and older models. The Qi charger is not compatible with the newer MagSafe iPhones.
The power bank has a single 12W USB-A port, a single 18W USB-C port, and a 5W Qi charger.
At 6.4” long, 2.9” wide, 0.7” thick, and at just 10.9 ounces, it’s a super portable power bank that slides into any zippered pocket or tech pouch.
The Satechi 165W 4-Port Charger is a great companion to this power bank. Depending on how many are used simultaneously, the ports range from 100W to 30W max output. The charger includes a wall plug and a stand for desktop use.
Specs
The integrated kickstand makes this the perfect MagSafe charger for Apple users but leaves out much of the smartphone market.
MagSafe is proprietary Apple technology that embeds a ring of powerful magnets around the Qi charger. Available on the iPhone 12 and newer models, MagSafe power banks securely fasten to the iPhone and provide wireless charging.
The Anker 633 Magnetic Power Bank is a significant update on their earlier MagGo charger. The new 633 Magnetic Power Bank features a 10,000mAh capacity capable of charging the iPhone 15 Pro twice.
The integrated kickstand is my favorite feature. It’s perfect for browsing social media while waiting for food to arrive at a restaurant. The kickstand magnetically fastens to the back of the power bank when not in use.
The wireless charging is a low-powered 7.5W, a standard for wireless charging. It’s enough to keep your phone charging during light use. However, if you use the USB-C port, you’ll get a 20W max output for faster charging.
The power bank is 4.15” tall, 2.72” wide, 0.81” thick and weighs 8 ounces.
Specs
You’ll barely notice this ultra-slim MagSafe charger secured to the back of your iPhone.
MagSafe is proprietary Apple technology that embeds a ring of powerful magnets around the Qi charger. Available on the iPhone 12 and newer models, MagSafe power banks securely fasten to the iPhone and provide wireless charging.
The Mophie Snap+ is a MagSafe power bank with a 10,000mAh capacity. It’s enough to give an iPhone 15 Pro almost two full charges. However, the 7.5W Qi charger is a slow trickle charge. And the 12W USB-C is only slightly faster.
The power bank is longer than other MagSafe chargers, measuring 8” long, 5” wide, and 1” thick. It weighs 12 ounces, making it perfect to stuff into your pocket or day bag.
Specs
This power bank is a good budget alternative, but with only a 10,000 mAh capacity you’ll struggle to charge multiple devices.
The Mophie Powerstation 10K has a 10,000 mAh capacity and can charge an iPhone 15 Pro Max twice, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra twice, and barely one charge for an iPad Pro 12.9”.
The power bank has a single USB-C port and two USB-A ports. When charging a device with only the USB-C port, you’ll have 20W max output for a fast charge. However, when using two or more charging ports, you’re limited to just 15W of max output.
Mophie power banks feature a signature fabric exterior that makes them a comfortable delight to hold – if that’s important to you. The power bank is 5.47” long, 2.84” wide, and 0.72” thick and weighs 8.5 ounces. It’s perfect for dropping into your pocket to carry throughout the day.
Specs
The impressive 20,000 mAh capacity is packed into a slim body, but the 16.4 ounces puts it on the upper end of weight for power banks.
BioLite has come a long way since debuting a charger that converted heat energy into juice for smartphones. The company’s lineup now includes a trio of power banks.
The BioLite Charge 80 has an impressive 20,000 mAh capable of charging an iPhone 15 Pro Max four times, a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra five times, and an iPad Pro 12.9” twice.
The power bank has a single 18W USB-C port and two USB-A ports.
The Charge 80 weighs more than the competitors at 16.4 ounces, but that’s still not hefty by any means. The power bank measures 6.7” long, 3.2” wide, and 1” thick.
The BioLite Charge 40 has the same power output with a 10,000 mAh capacity, and the BioLite Charge 20 has the same power output with a 4,000 mAh capacity.
Specs
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